cashmere, a black leather skirt and leopard scarf

as we slowly transition from fall to winter, it’s time to add cashmere into the mix. while we’re at it, a black leather skirt is a nice addition. one good thing about colder weather is the fashion choices that come with it. y’all know i love sweater weather. but it’s boot season too, and it’s nice to slip our tootsies into a range of boots from booties to knee-high boots, or over the knee boots. each silhouette has a rhyme and reason. don’t get into a style rut thinking booties or over-the-knee boots are only worn with blue jeans or slacks. let’s think outside the style box for a moment. why don’t we start to familiarize ourselves by wearing booties with a skirt? it’s a fresh and modern look even for women of a certain age.

natural fibers like cotton, silk, wool, linen, cashmere, and leather are perfect additions to a classic wardrobe. why natural fibers? because if taken care of properly, they will last for years and years. and that’s what we are looking for when building a timeless wardrobe. clothes that have staying power. a silk blouse might cost more upfront than a polyester blend. and it might take a little extra maintenance. but if you pro-rate the cost of the blouse over time, you will begin to see that investing in your wardrobe is a smart choice. pick a neutral color that can be mixed and matched with other items in your closet. it’s the easiest way to make your wardrobe stretch for miles. i love black and wear it year-round. if you think it drains your skin tone, choose navy, which is universally flattering.

cashmere sweater

today, i pulled out a wrap cashmere sweater (old, similar here) from storage. it’s from Ann Taylor, last seen in this post. typically a brand will trot out the same version but with updated colors. the leather skirt (old, similar here) from Talbots last seen in this post is two seasons ago. that’s the beauty of building a timeless wardrobe. both the sweater and skirt are still in style and will be for years to come. the sweater and skirt can fly solo with ease, but if the temps get chilly, pop on a black leather moto jacket (old, similar here), another classic, timeless piece, for warmth. 

black suede booties were the perfect choice to give this timeless outfit a hint of sassiness. don’t forget a pair of  black tights. a favorite brand is Commando, found at Nordstrom. it’s a pricey brand, but they feel amazing and last forever. let’s add a leopard scarf (old, similar here) for good measure.  and a structured handbag (old, similar here) for spit and polish.

skirt (old, similar here, here and here) | cashmere sweater | moto jacket (old, similar here) | scarf (old, similar scarf) | suede booties | tights | handbag (old, similar here)

leather skirt

skirt (old, similar here, here and here) | cashmere sweater | moto jacket (old, similar here) | scarf (old, similar scarf) | suede booties | tights | handbag (old, similar here)

have you missed these posts?

fall coat roundup for 2020

a prep in my step | how to dress preppy in the winter

what’s in my carry on

Beth Djalali

is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.

She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.

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